SHRM PIP Example: A Step-by-Step Guide

Montreal Jul 09, 2026

The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) offers a wide range of certifications to enhance HR professionals' skills and knowledge. One of the most sought-after certifications is the SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) and SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP). To prepare for these exams, many candidates use the SHRM Learning System, which includes practice questions and exams. Here, we'll explore a SHRM pip (Practice Integrated Program) example to help you understand the format and types of questions you'll encounter.

Lisa Young 🚀 on LinkedIn: PIPs have to be one of the most misunderstood things out there in HR… | 44 comments
Lisa Young 🚀 on LinkedIn: PIPs have to be one of the most misunderstood things out there in HR… | 44 comments

Before diving into the SHRM pip example, let's briefly understand the SHRM Learning System. It's an online platform that provides comprehensive learning materials, including interactive modules, practice questions, and full-length exams. The pip (Practice Integrated Program) is a feature within the learning system that simulates the actual exam environment, helping candidates familiarize themselves with the format and build confidence.

SHRM-CP Exam. What Nobody Tells You Before You Sit For It
SHRM-CP Exam. What Nobody Tells You Before You Sit For It

Understanding SHRM Pip Exam Format

The SHRM pip exam follows a similar format to the actual SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP exams. It consists of 90 multiple-choice questions, with a time limit of 3.5 hours. The exam is divided into four domains, each representing a different aspect of HR management:

shrm pip example
shrm pip example
  • Human Resource Expertise (30%)
  • People (30%)
  • Organization (25%)
  • Workplace (15%)

SHRM Pip Question Types

Mastering the Performance Improvement Plan (PIP) for Employee Growth
Mastering the Performance Improvement Plan (PIP) for Employee Growth

SHRM pip exams include three types of questions:

  1. Single best answer (SBA): These are traditional multiple-choice questions with four options. You must select the best answer.
  2. Scenario-based: These questions present a scenario and ask you to choose the best course of action. They may have multiple parts and require you to select the best answer for each part.
  3. Situational judgment: These questions present a situation and ask you to rank the answer choices in order of preference. They assess your ability to make decisions in complex situations.

SHRM Pip Example Questions

the truth about a pipp performance improvement plan is shown in black and white text
the truth about a pipp performance improvement plan is shown in black and white text

Let's look at an example of each question type:

Single best answer (SBA)

Which of the following is NOT a responsibility of a compensation and benefits manager?

Performance Improvement Plan Notification Letter (PIP #2)
Performance Improvement Plan Notification Letter (PIP #2)
  1. Designing compensation structures
  2. Administering employee benefits
  3. Managing employee performance
  4. Ensuring compliance with labor laws

Scenario-based

the seven levels of pps in a circle with numbers and symbols on each side
the seven levels of pps in a circle with numbers and symbols on each side
PIP applicants told to keep vital four words in mind when filling out assessment forms — Lancs Live
PIP applicants told to keep vital four words in mind when filling out assessment forms — Lancs Live
FPTP
FPTP
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a poster with instructions on how to use it
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a diagram showing the role of operational excellence
Discover Team Tactics™ – 54 Leadership Frameworks from Pip Decks®
Discover Team Tactics™ – 54 Leadership Frameworks from Pip Decks®
the pmp exam poster for july, with information on how to prepare and use it
the pmp exam poster for july, with information on how to prepare and use it
an image of a poster with information about the different types of things to see on it
an image of a poster with information about the different types of things to see on it
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Benefits of PIPS For Sales
an info poster showing the benefits of quality
an info poster showing the benefits of quality
shrm pip example
shrm pip example
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Meta for Business (formerly Facebook for Business)
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The PPAP Process Using Empower PPAP - Infographic
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12 SOP Examples to Steal for Your Team - Whatfix
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Failure Modes & Effects Analysis (FMEA) - Template & Example
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SPHR Certification| Senior Professional HR
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two people standing next to each other in front of a clock with text on it
Why Performance Improvement Plans Fail and 3 Questions to Ask Before Starting a PIP PT. 2
Why Performance Improvement Plans Fail and 3 Questions to Ask Before Starting a PIP PT. 2
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What is PERT Chart in Project Management? | Engineering Economics and Project Management Notes
Project Management - PMP Certification Training Group | Facebook
Project Management - PMP Certification Training Group | Facebook

You are a HR manager at a tech company. An employee has come to you with a concern about a colleague who they believe is consistently underperforming. The employee wants to know why this colleague is still employed. What would be the most appropriate response?

  1. Tell the employee that it's not their concern and to focus on their own work.
  2. Explain the performance improvement plan (PIP) process and assure the employee that the underperforming colleague is being addressed.
  3. Encourage the employee to talk to the underperforming colleague directly.
  4. Promise to fire the underperforming colleague immediately.

Situational judgment

Rank the following actions in order of preference when addressing a sudden increase in employee turnover:

  • Implementing a referral bonus program
  • Conducting exit interviews
  • Analyzing turnover data to identify trends and patterns
  • Offering additional training and development opportunities

By understanding the SHRM pip exam format and practicing with pip examples, you can significantly improve your chances of passing the SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP exam. The SHRM Learning System provides ample resources to help you prepare, so make the most of it. Good luck with your studies!